Flooring, September 29, 2025

Parquet vs Herringbone Flooring: Everything You Need to Know

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Parquet flooring refers to any patterned floor created by arranging small planks or wood pieces into geometric patterns. These parquet blocks form distinctive patterns ranging from simple layouts to more complex patterns that showcase timeless elegance. Parquet floors are crafted from either solid wood or engineered wood, both of which bring authentic appeal and natural warmth to interiors.

Modern flooring technology has made parquet a versatile choice for homeowners seeking beauty and practicality. Parquet is no longer limited to real wood; advanced flooring materials such as laminate parquet flooring, laminate flooring, and even luxury vinyl tile (LVT flooring) now replicate the look of real wood or marble floors with remarkable visual appeal. Many of these modern flooring types use a photographic top layer that mimics the texture and tone of wood flooring, giving homeowners the aesthetic appeal of natural wood with added benefits such as scratch-resistant finishes, waterproof properties, and a tough surface suitable for heavy foot traffic. These flooring options provide durability and enduring appeal, making parquet floors a long-term investment in both style and function.

What is Herringbone Flooring?

Herringbone flooring is one of the most recognisable and timeless parquet styles, defined by its staggered plank design. The herringbone pattern is achieved by placing each board at a right angle, where the end of one wood plank meets the side of the next plank, forming a distinctive zig-zag pattern. This staggered zig-zag pattern gives herringbone floors their characteristic flow and symmetry.

The aesthetic appeal of herringbone parquet flooring lies in its classic sophistication and ability to add timeless appeal to any setting. Whether created from solid wood or engineered wood, herringbone parquet combines rustic beauty with modern performance. It remains a symbol of refined craftsmanship that enhances both traditional and contemporary interiors. The herringbone pattern also works beautifully in small spaces, as the diagonal patterns create an illusion of width and openness. For homeowners seeking both herringbone and parquet flooring that balances authentic appeal with practicality, herringbone parquet remains an ideal choice.

Herringbone floors are available in a range of flooring materials and finishes, from natural oak to engineered constructions that ensure greater stability. Advances in flooring technology have made herringbone parquet flooring accessible in multiple flooring types, including laminate parquet and LVT flooring, for those desiring less maintenance without compromising on aesthetic qualities. Whether you prefer the warmth of real wood or the durability of modern alternatives, herringbone flooring offers timeless elegance and enduring charm.

Chevron Floors and How They Differ

The chevron pattern is another well-known parquet design often compared to herringbone. The difference between herringbone and chevron flooring lies in the angle of the planks. In herringbone parquet, each plank meets the next at a right angle, forming a staggered zig-zag pattern. In contrast, chevron planks are cut at an angle, creating continuous diagonal lines that form a seamless V shape.

Chevron floors add elegance and symmetry, producing a more luxurious design effect. The chevron pattern’s clean diagonal lines offer a bold, streamlined aesthetic that complements modern interiors. While both herringbone and chevron patterns belong to the broader family of patterned floors, chevron parquet stands out for its sharp geometry and dynamic flow. Like herringbone, chevron floors can be crafted in engineered wood, solid wood, or laminate parquet, offering homeowners a diverse range of flooring options to suit different preferences and spaces.

Whether you prefer the staggered plank design of herringbone or the continuous diagonal lines of chevron patterns, both create distinctive patterns that add elegance and visual interest. These parquet styles bring out the natural charm of wood flooring while ensuring your space reflects your personal style and desired aesthetic.

Parquet vs Herringbone Flooring: Key Considerations

When comparing herringbone vs parquet flooring, it’s important to understand that herringbone is not a separate category but rather a particular pattern within parquet. ‘Parquet’ is the umbrella term for all patterned floors, while ‘herringbone’ refers specifically to the staggered zig-zag pattern made from small planks of wood arranged at right angles.

In terms of flooring materials, parquet floors can be produced from solid wood for traditional authenticity or engineered wood for added stability and compatibility with underfloor heating. Modern alternatives like laminate parquet flooring and luxury vinyl tile provide a tough surface with scratch-resistant and waterproof properties, making them ideal for busy households and high-traffic areas. These flooring types require less maintenance while still delivering strong visual appeal and aesthetic qualities that mimic real wood floors.

The installation process for parquet and herringbone floors requires professional skill, especially for complex patterns like herringbone parquet and chevron parquet. Each wood plank must be laid precisely to maintain the symmetry and flow of the design. Though the fitting process can be intricate, the result is a floor that embodies timeless appeal, authentic craftsmanship, and long-term durability.

When selecting between herringbone and parquet, consider your personal taste, the size of your room, and your overall aesthetic goals. The diagonal patterns and geometric precision of these designs can transform both large and small spaces, adding depth, warmth, and style. Whether your preference is for the rustic beauty of wood floors or the versatility of laminate parquet, these patterned floors enhance the home’s atmosphere with enduring elegance.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, parquet vs herringbone flooring comes down to understanding that parquet is the broad category of patterned floors, while herringbone is one of its most distinctive patterns. Both herringbone and parquet flooring offer aesthetic appeal, timeless elegance, and authentic character that elevates any interior. Whether you choose the refined symmetry of chevron floors, the staggered plank design of herringbone, or another parquet style with complex patterns and geometric precision, you’ll be selecting a floor that adds elegance and enduring appeal.

At the Natural Wood Floor Company, we offer a diverse range of herringbone and parquet flooring crafted from engineered wood and solid wood. We craft each design to showcase the genuine appeal of natural materials, blending classic sophistication with contemporary durability. Whatever your personal style or desired aesthetic, our expert team can guide you toward the right flooring to enhance your home’s overall aesthetic for decades to come.